Moving house is always a stressful time, but it can be even more challenging in the winter months. The weather can be unpredictable, the days are shorter, and the roads can be slippery. However, moving in winter also has some advantages, such as lower rates and more availability from removalists, less competition for properties, and a cozy feeling of settling into your new home. To help you make the most of your winter move, here are some tips to follow:
1. Plan in advance
The first tip for moving in winter is to plan ahead as much as possible. Check the weather forecast regularly and try to avoid moving on a day with heavy rain, snow, or strong winds. If you have to reschedule your move due to bad weather, make sure you have a backup plan and communicate with your removalists and landlords. You should also book your removalists as early as possible, as they may have more flexibility and lower rates in winter.
2. Don’t wear winter clothes
It may sound counterintuitive, but wearing winter clothes when moving can actually make you feel hotter and more uncomfortable. When you are lifting boxes and furniture, you will generate a lot of body heat and sweat, which can make your winter clothes feel heavy and sticky. Instead, wear light layers that you can easily take off or put on as needed. You should also wear gloves that are thin and flexible, so you can grip your items better.
3. Make sure utilities are on at your new house in advance
One of the worst things that can happen when moving in winter is arriving at your new house and finding out that the utilities are not working. You don’t want to spend your first night in the dark and cold, or without hot water or internet. To avoid this, make sure you contact your utility providers well before your move and arrange for the connection of gas, electricity, water, phone, and internet at your new address. You should also check that the heating system is working properly and set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature.
4. Have a wet weather contingency plan
Even if you plan ahead and check the weather forecast, there is always a chance that it will rain or snow on your moving day. To prevent your belongings from getting wet and damaged, you should have a wet weather contingency plan. This includes wrapping your items in plastic covers or tarps, using waterproof boxes or bags, and having towels or mats ready to wipe off any moisture. You should also cover the floors of your old and new house with cardboard or plastic sheets to avoid slipping or staining.
5. Cover your floors
Another tip for moving in winter is to cover your floors with protective materials such as cardboard, plastic sheets, rugs, or blankets. This will help you prevent scratches, dents, or stains on your hardwood floors or carpets from the dirt, mud, or snow that may be brought in by your shoes or furniture. It will also make it easier to clean up after the move and avoid losing your security deposit.
6. Turn the heating off during the packing and unpacking
While it may be tempting to keep the heating on during the packing and unpacking process, this can actually make you feel more uncomfortable and waste energy. As mentioned earlier, you will generate a lot of body heat when moving heavy items, so having the heating on will only make you feel hotter and sweatier. It will also create a temperature difference between the inside and outside of your house, which can cause condensation and moisture on your windows and walls. To avoid this, turn off the heating while you are packing and unpacking, and only turn it on when you are ready to relax.
7. Have a pet or babysitter
If you have pets or children, moving in winter can be especially stressful for them. They may feel anxious about the change of environment, get bored or restless during the long hours of packing and unpacking, or get sick from the cold weather. To make things easier for them and yourself, you should consider hiring a pet or babysitter to take care of them during the move. You can ask a friend or family member to look after them at their place or find a professional service online or through referrals.
8. Book a morning pickup of the keys
Another tip for moving in winter is to book a morning pickup of the keys from your old or new landlord. This will give you more time to complete your move during daylight hours, which are shorter in winter than in summer. It will also allow you to avoid traffic jams during peak hours, which can be worse in winter due to road conditions or accidents. Moreover, it will give you more time to settle into your new home and enjoy a warm meal and a good night’s sleep.
9. Use extra bubble wrap
When moving in winter, you should use extra bubble wrap to protect your fragile items from breaking or cracking due to the cold temperature. Glass, ceramic, porcelain, and metal items are more prone to damage in winter, as they can contract and expand with the changes in temperature. To prevent this, wrap them in several layers of bubble wrap and pack them in sturdy boxes with plenty of padding. You should also label them as fragile and handle them with care.
10. Get into your new home early and get a crock pot started
One of the best ways to warm up and relax after a winter move is to have a hot and hearty meal waiting for you at your new home. To do this, you can use a crock pot or slow cooker to prepare a delicious soup, stew, or casserole before you leave your old house. You can plug it in at your new house as soon as you arrive, and let it cook while you unpack. By the time you are done, you will have a ready-made meal that will fill your stomach and your soul.
Conclusion
Moving in winter may seem like a daunting task, but it can also be a rewarding experience if you follow these tips. By planning ahead, protecting your belongings, hiring Reliable removalists in Sydney, and making your new home cozy and comfortable, you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free winter move. If you need more help or advice on moving in winter, feel free to contact us at Six Brothers Removals Sydney.
